Lightweight cementitious compositions and building products and methods for making same

ABSTRACT

Cementitious compositions and methods for making same, in which the cementitious compositions include 35-60 wt. % cementitious reactive powder (also termed Portland cement-based binder), 2-10 wt. % expanded and chemically coated perlite filler, 20-40 wt. % water, entrained air, and optional additives such as water reducing agents, chemical set-accelerators, and chemical set-retarders. In addition, the lightweight cementitious compositions may contain 0-25 wt. % on a wet basis secondary fillers such as expanded clay, shale aggregate, and pumice.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to lightweight cementitious compositions formanufacturing cement-based panels and building products. In particular,the cementitious compositions and products have a density in the rangeof about 40 to 80 pounds per cubic foot (0.64 to 1.28 g/cc), preferablyabout 45 to 65 pounds per cubic foot (0.72 to 1.04 g/cc).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

U.S. Pat. No. 6,869,474 to Perez-Pena et al., incorporated herein byreference, discusses fast setting of cementitious compositions forproducing cement-based products such as cement boards is achieved byadding an alkanolamine to a hydraulic cement such as Portland cement,and forming a slurry with water under conditions that provide an initialslurry temperature of at least 90° F. (36° C.). Additional reactivematerials may be included such as high alumina cement, calcium sulfateand a pozzolanic material such as fly ash. The extremely rapid setpermits rapid production of cementitious products. Triethanolamineadditions have been found to be a very poweful accelerator capable ofproducing formulations with relatively short final setting times withincreased levels of fly ash and gypsum and without the need of calciumaluminate cements. However, formulations with triethanolamine also hadrelatively lower early-age compressive strength compared to previouscement board formulations containing the calcium aluminate cements.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,641,658 to Dubey, incorporated herein by reference,discusses rapid setting cementitious composition useful for makingcement boards containing as reactive powders portland cement, pozzolan,high alumina cement, and insoluble calcium sulfate anhydrite, whichprovide reduced setting times compared to the prior-art cementitiouscompositions. The composition preferably comprises as a reactive powderblend 35 to 90 wt. % Portland cement, 0 to 55 wt. % pozzolan, 5 to 15wt. % high alumina cement, and 1 to 8 wt. % insoluble calcium sulfateanhydrite. Substitution of insoluble calcium sulfate anhydrite forconventional soluble gypsum (a dihydrate) increases the release of heatand decreases setting times, despite the use of very high amounts ofpozzolanic materials, preferably fly ash. The cementitious compositionmay also include lightweight aggregates and fillers, plus additives toimpart other useful properties as desired, such as superplasticizers,set retarders, and set accelerators.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,488,909 to Galer et al., incorporated herein byreference, discusses cementitious compositions capable of rapid setting.The compositions permit high speed production of carbon dioxideresistant cement boards by forming essentially all of the potentialettringite within about 20 minutes after the composition is mixed withwater. The essential components of the cementitious composition arePortland cement, high alumina cement, calcium sulfate and lime.Pozzolans such as fly ash, montmorillonite clay, diatomaceous earth andpumicite may be added up to about 25%. The cement composition includesabout 14 to 21 wt. % high alumina cement, which in combination with theother components makes possible the early formation of ettringite andother calcium aluminate hydrates responsible for early setting of thecementitious mixture. In their invention, Galer et al. providedaluminates using high alumina cement (HAC) and sulfate ions using gypsumto form ettringite and achieve rapid setting of their cementitiousmixture.

Ettringite is a compound of calcium aluminum sulfate compound having theformula Ca₆Al₂(SO₄)₃.32H₂O or alternatively 3 CaO.Al₂O₃.3CaSO₄.32H₂O.Ettringite forms as long needle-like crystals and provides rapid earlystrength to cement boards, so they can be handled soon after beingpoured into a mold or over a continuous casting and forming belt.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to provide lightweight cementitiouscompositions for manufacturing cement-based panels and buildingproducts.

It is another object of the invention to provide cementitiouscompositions and products have a density in the range of about 40 to 80pounds per cubic foot (0.64 to 1.28 g/cc), preferably about 45 to 65pounds per cubic foot (0.72 to 1.04 g/cc). The preferred flexuralstrength of boards made from this composition ranges between 400 to 2000psi (2.76 to 13.8 MPa). The most preferred flexural strength rangesbetween 750 to 1750 psi (5.17 to 12.1 MPa). The preferred maximumdeflection of boards, measured in a flexural test conducted per ASTM C947 for specimen tested over 10 inch span, made from this compositionranges between 0.25 to 1.75 inches (0.64 to 4.5 cm). The most preferredmaximum deflection ranges between 0.50 to 1.25 inches (1.3 to 3.18 cm).

It is another object of the present invention to provide lightweightcementitious panels that on a ½ inch (1.27 cm) thickness basis weighpreferably less than 3.3 pounds per sq.ft. (16.1 kg per sq. m), morepreferably less than 2.5 pounds per sq.ft. (12.2 kg per sq. m), and mostpreferably less than 2.1 pounds per sq.ft. (10.25 kg per sq. m).

It is another object of the present invention to provide cementitiouspanels that are used as durable and bondable substrate for installationof ceramic tiles, dimensional stones, and plaster finishes.

It is another object of the present invention to provide cementitiouspanels that have good water repellency and resistance to waterpenetration.

It is another object of the present invention to provide cementitiousproducts that have good moisture durability and dimensional stability toallow them to be used in wet areas in buildings.

It is another object of the present invention to provide lightweightcementitious products that are resistant to bacteria, mold, and fungalgrowth.

It is another object of the present invention to provide lightweightcementitious products that have good freeze-thaw durability.

It is another object of the present invention to provide lightweightcementitious products that are non-combustible.

It is another object of the present invention to provide lightweightcementitious products that have significantly improved handling,installation, and fastening characteristics.

It is another object of the present invention to provide lightweightcementitious panel products that have significantly improved score andsnap performance and cutting characteristics.

It is another object of the present invention to provide cementitiouscompositions that in wet state have flowable consistency, are stable,and not prone to material segregation.

It is another object of the present invention to provide cementitiouscompositions that are responsible for development of good bond betweenthe cementitious core and surface reinforcing meshes in thincementitious panel products during and after manufacturing.

It is another object of the present invention to provide cementitiouscompositions that lead to efficient processing of lightweightcementitious products in commercial manufacturing environments.

It is another object of the present invention to provide methods forpreparing lightweight cementitious compositions for manufacturingcement-based panels and building products.

Thus, this invention relates generally to fast setting lightweightcementitious composition for construction of panels or boards.

The cementitious composition includes 35-60 wt. % cementitious reactivepowder (also termed Portland cement-based binder), 2-10 wt. % expandedand chemically coated perlite filler, 20-40 wt. % water, entrained air,for examplel 0-50 vol. %, on a wet basis, entrained air, and optionaladditives such as water reducing agents, chemical set-accelerators, andchemical set-retarders. The lightweight cementitious compositions mayalso optionally contain 0-25 wt. % secondary fillers, for example 10-25wt. % secondary fillers. Typical filler include one or more of expandedclay, shale aggregate, and pumice.

The cementitious reactive powder used in the present invention istypically composed of either pure Portland cement or a mixture ofPortland cement and a suitable pozzolanic material such as fly ash orblast furnace slag. The cementitious reactive powder may also optionallycontain one or more of gypsum (land plaster) and high alumina cement(HAC) added in small dosages to influence setting and hydrationcharacteristics of the binder.

Obtaining the lightweight density is assisted by employing (i) expandedperlite employing special attributes and (ii) air entrainment.

The expanded perlite filler occupies 7.5-40% of the composite volume, ispreferably composed of particles having a median particle size of 20-60microns in diameter, preferably has a particle density of less than 0.30g/cc, and is coated with silane, siloxane, silicone or a mixturethereof. This expanded perlite filler is unique in that it is chemicallycoated for water-tightness and water repellency. Furthermore, the coatedexpanded perlite filler has a particle size in a range that allowsformation of an effective-water-tight closed cell particle structurewith the applying of the chemical coating. The use of the selectedcoated expanded perlite filler is important to allowing preparation ofworkable and processable cementitious slurries at low water usage rates.Lower amounts of water in the composition result in a product havingsuperior mechanical properties and physical characteristics.

The entrained air represents 10-50% of composite volume on a wet basis.Air-entrainment in the compositions of the invention is provided bymeans of suitable surfactants that form a stable and uniform structureof air voids in the finished product.

The cementitious compositions of the present invention can be used tomake precast concrete products such as cement boards with excellentmoisture durability for use in wet and dry locations in buildings. Theprecast concrete products such as cement boards are made underconditions which provide a rapid setting of the cementitious mixture sothat the boards can be handled soon after the cementitious mixture ispoured into a stationary or moving form or over a continuously movingbelt.

The lightweight cementitious compositions and products typically haveone or more of the following advantages:

-   -   low water demand    -   flowable and workable slurries obtained at low water dosages    -   lightweight density    -   high compressive strength    -   excellent water durability    -   excellent dimensional stability under changing environmental        conditions    -   excellent water penetration resistance through the product        thickness    -   excellent bonding strength to finish surfaces such as ceramic        tiles and cement mortars    -   rapid setting behavior    -   superior aesthetics and appearance.

Typically a cement board made by curing the above-described compositionhas a thickness of about ¼ to 1 inches (6.3 to 25.4 mm).

All percentages, ratios and proportions herein are by weight, unlessotherwise specified. Also, any average molecular weights are weightaverage molecular weight unless specified otherwise.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 shows slurry temperature rise response for the mixes investigatedin Example 11.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Cementitious Composition

TABLE 1 describes mixtures used to form the lightweight cementitiouscompositions of the present invention. The volume occupied by thechemically coated perlite is in the range of 7.5 to 40% and the volumeoccupied by the entrained air is in the range of 10 to 50% of theoverall volume of the composition. This significantly assists inproducing cement products having the desired low density of about 40 to80 pcf (0.64 to 1.28 g/cc), preferably about 45 to 65 pounds per cubicfoot (0.72 to 1.04 g/cc).

TABLE 1 Lightweight Cementitious Compositions Ingredient Weight % Volume% Portland cement-based binder 35-60 10-25 (cementitious reactivepowder) Chemically coated perlite  2-10 7.5-40  Expanded clay and shaleaggregate  0-25  0-15 Water 20-40 20-40 Entrained Air — 10-50

The cementitious composition preferably includes:

-   -   cementitious reactive powder comprising Portland cement and        optionally a pozzolanic material (35-60% wt)(a typical mix        included 100 parts Portland cement; 30 parts fly ash; 3 parts        land plaster; expanded and chemically coated perlite filler        (2-10% wt),    -   entrained air (10-50% of the composite volume, the % of        composite volume being the volume % of the slurry on a wet        basis),    -   water (20-40% wt),    -   optional additives such as water reducing agents, accelerators,        retarders, and    -   optional secondary fillers (10-25% wt), for example expanded        clay, shale aggregate and pumice;    -   wherein the total of expanded and chemically coated perlite        filler and secondary fillers, for example expanded clay, shale        aggregate and/or pumice, is at least 20% wt.        Chemically Coated Expanded Perlite Filler

The expanded perlite filler is 2-10 weight %, 7.5-40 volume % of thecementitious composition slurry. The expanded perlite filler is composedof particles having a mean particle diameter typically between 20-500microns or 20 to 250 microns, preferably between 20-150 microns, morepreferably between 20-90 microns, and most preferably between 20-60microns, an effective particle density preferably less than 0.50 g/cc,more preferably less than 0.40 g/cc and most preferably less than 0.30g/cc, and chemically treated with silane, siloxane, silicone coatings ora mixture thereof. This expanded perlite filler is unique in that it ischemically coated for water-tightness and water repellency.

Furthermore, the coated expanded perlite filler particle size allowsformation of an effective-water-tight closed cell particle structurewith the applying of the chemical coating. The use of the selectedcoated expanded perlite filler is important to allowing preparation ofworkable and processable cementitious slurries at low water usage rates.Lower amounts of water in the composition results in a product havingsuperior mechanical properties and physical characteristics. The mostpreferred chemical coating compounds for making perlite particleswater-tight and water repellant are alkyl alkoxy silanes. Octyltriethoxysilane represents the most preferred alkyl alkoxy silane to coat perlitefor using with the cementitious compositions of this invention.

One of the most preferred commercially available chemically coatedperlite fillers is SIL-CELL 35-23 available from Silbrico Corporation.SIL-CELL 35-23 perlite particles are chemically coated with alky alkoxysilane compound. Another preferred chemically coated perlite filler isSIL-CELL 35-34 available from Silibrico Corporation. SIL-CELL 35-34perlite particles are also useful in cementitious compositions of theinvention and are coated with silicone compound. DICAPERL 210 andDICAPERL 220 are yet another two commercial coated perlite fillerproducts produced by Grefco Minerals Inc. that are preferred in thisinvention. DICAPERL 210 perlite, with alkyl alkoxy silane compound isparticularly preferred in the cementitious compositions of theinvention. DICAPERL 220 perlite, coated with silicone compound is alsouseful in the compositions of this invention.

Another very useful property of the perlite fillers of the invention isthat they display pozzolanic properties because of their small particlesize and silica-based chemical nature. Owing to their pozzolanicbehavior, the selected perlite fillers of the invention improve chemicaldurability of the cementitious composites while developing improvedinterfaces and enhanced bonding with the cementitious binders and otheringredients present in the mixture.

Yet another extremely important benefit results from the small size ofthe perlite filler particles of this invention. This improvementpertains to the manufacturability and performance characteristics ofmesh reinforced cement board products produced using the perlitecompositions of the invention. Selected perlite fillers of the inventionenhance the overall amount of very fine particles (less than 75 microns)present in the composition. Presence of high content of fine particlesin the composition is extremely useful in rapid processing of meshreinforced cement board as it helps to improve the bond between thecementitious slurry and reinforcing mesh. Improved bond betweencementitious slurry and reinforcing mesh leads to reduced occurrences ofmesh delamination, faster cement board processing speeds, and improvedproduction recoveries.

Cementitious Reactive Powder (Portland Cement-Based Binder)

The cementitious reactive powder (also termed Portland cement-basedbinder) used in the present invention is typically composed of eitherpure Portland cement or a mixture of Portland cement and a suitablepozzolanic material such as fly ash or blast furnace slag.

The cementitious reactive powder includes Portland cement, and also mayinclude high alumina cement, calcium sulfate, and a mineral additive,preferably fly ash, to form a slurry with water. Cementitious reactivepowder does not include inerts such as aggregate.

When the cementitious reactive powder of the invention includes onlyPortland cement and fly ash, the cementitious reactive powder preferablycontains 40-90 wt. % Portland cement and 10-60 wt. % fly ash, or 40-80wt. % Portland cement and 20-60 wt. % fly ash, wherein wt. % is based onthe sum of the Portland cement and fly ash.

The cementitious reactive powder may also optionally contain one orother ingredients such as gypsum (land plaster) or high alumina cementadded in small dosages to influence the setting and hydrationcharacteristics of the binder. When such other ingredients are present,the cementitious reactive powder may contain 40-80 wt. % Portlandcement, 0 to 20 wt. % high alumina cement, 0 to 7 wt. % calcium sulfate,and 0 to 55 wt. % fly ash based on the sum of these components.

Thus, the cementitious reactive powder blend of the cementitiouscomposition may contain very high concentrations of mineral additives,such as pozzolanic materials, up to 55 wt % of the reactive powderblend. Increasing the content of mineral additives, e.g. fly ash, wouldhelp to substantially lower the cost of the product. Moreover, use ofpozzolanic materials in the composition helps enhance the long-termdurability of the product as a consequence of the pozzolanic reactions.

The reactive powder blend of the cementitious composition may be free ofexternally added lime. Reduced lime content helps lower the alkalinityof the cementitious matrix and thereby increase the long-term durabilityof the product.

Hydraulic Cement

Hydraulic cements, in particular Portland cement, make up a substantialamount of the compositions of the invention. It is to be understoodthat, as used here, “hydraulic cement” does not include gypsum, whichdoes not gain strength under water, although typically some gypsum isincluded in Portland cement.

ASTM C 150 standard specification for Portland cement defines Portlandcement as a hydraulic cement produced by pulverizing clinker consistingessentially of hydraulic calcium silicates, usually containing one ormore of the forms of calcium sulfate as an inter-ground addition. Moregenerally, other hydraulic cements may be substituted for Portlandcement, for example calcium sulfo-aluminate based cements. Tomanufacture Portland cement, an intimate mixture of limestone and clayis ignited in a kiln to form Portland cement clinker. The following fourmain phases of Portland cement are present in the clinker—tricalciumsilicate (3CaO.SiO₂, also referred to as C₃S), dicalcium silicate(2CaO.SiO₂, called C₂S), tricalcium aluminate (3CaO.Al₂O₃ or C₃A), andtetracalcium aluminoferrite (4CaO.Al₂O₃.Fe₂O₃ or C₄AF). The resultingclinker containing the above compounds is inter-ground with calciumsulfates to desired fineness to produce the Portland cement.

The other compounds present in minor amounts in Portland cement includedouble salts of alkaline sulfates, calcium oxide, and magnesium oxide.When cement boards are to be made, the Portland cement will typically bein the form of very fine particles such that the particle surface areais greater than 4,000 cm²/gram and typically between 5,000 to 6,000cm²/gram as measured by the Blaine surface area method (ASTM C 204). Ofthe various recognized classes of Portland cement, ASTM Type IIIPortland cement is most preferred in the cementitious reactive powder ofthe cementitious compositions of the invention. This is due to itsrelatively faster reactivity and high early strength development.

In the present invention, the need for the use of Type III Portlandcement is minimized and relatively fast early age strength developmentcan be obtained using other cements instead of Type III Portland cement.The other recognized types of cements which may be used to replace orsupplement Type III Portland cement in the composition of the inventioninclude Type I Portland cement or other hydraulic cements includingwhite cement, slag cements such as blast-furnace slag cement, pozzolanblended cements, expansive cements, sulfo-aluminate cements, andoil-well cements.

Mineral Additives

The cementitious reactive powder blend of the cementitious compositionmay contain high concentrations of mineral additives, such as pozzolanicmaterials and/or non-pozzolanic aggregates, for example, calciumcarbonate, mica, talc, etc.

ASTM C618-97 defines pozzolanic materials as “siliceous or siliceous andaluminous materials which in themselves possess little or nocementitious value, but will, in finely divided form and in the presenceof moisture, chemically react with calcium hydroxide at ordinarytemperatures to form compounds possessing cementitious properties.”Various natural and man-made materials have been referred to aspozzolanic materials possessing pozzolanic properties. Some examples ofpozzolanic materials include pumice, diatomaceous earth, silica fume,tuft, trass, rice husk, metakaolin, ground granulated blast furnaceslag, and fly ash. All of these pozzolanic materials can be used eithersingly or in combined form as part of the cementitious reactive powderof the invention.

Fly ash is the preferred pozzolan in the cementitious reactive powderblend of the invention. Fly ashes containing high calcium oxide andcalcium aluminate content (such as Class C fly ashes of ASTM C618standard) are preferred as explained below. Other mineral additives suchas calcium carbonate, clays, and crushed mica may also be included.

Fly ash is a fine powder byproduct formed from the combustion of coal.Electric power plant utility boilers burning pulverized coal producemost commercially available fly ashes. These fly ashes consist mainly ofglassy spherical particles as well as residues of hematite andmagnetite, char, and some crystalline phases formed during cooling. Thestructure, composition and properties of fly ash particles depend uponthe structure and composition of the coal and the combustion processesby which fly ash is formed. ASTM C618 standard recognizes two majorclasses of fly ashes for use in concrete—Class C and Class F. These twoclasses of fly ashes are derived from different kinds of coals that area result of differences in the coal formation processes occurring overgeological time periods. Class F fly ash is normally produced fromburning anthracite or bituminous coal, whereas Class C fly ash isnormally produced from lignite or sub-bituminous coal.

The ASTM C618 standard differentiates Class F and Class C fly ashesprimarily according to their pozzolanic properties. Accordingly, in theASTM C618 standard, the major specification difference between the ClassF fly ash and Class C fly ash is the minimum limit of SiO₂+Al₂O₃+Fe₂O₃in the composition. The minimum limit of SiO₂+Al₂O₃+Fe₂O₃ for Class Ffly ash is 70% and for Class C fly ash is 50%. Thus, Class F fly ashesare more pozzolanic than the Class C fly ashes. Although not explicitlyrecognized in the ASTM C618 standard, Class C fly ashes typicallycontain high calcium oxide content. Presence of high calcium oxidecontent makes Class C fly ashes possess cementitious properties leadingto the formation of calcium silicate and calcium aluminate hydrates whenmixed with water. As will be seen in the examples below, Class C fly ashhas been found to provide superior results, particularly in thepreferred formulations in which high alumina cement and gypsum are notused.

The weight ratio of the pozzolanic material to the Portland cement inthe cementitious reactive powder blend used in the cementitiouscomposition of the invention may be about 0/100 to 150/100, preferably25/100 to 125/100. For example, a typical cementitious reactive powderblend has about 10 to 60 wt. % fly ash and 40 to 90 wt. % Portlandcement.

High Alumina Cement

High alumina cement (HAC) is another type of hydraulic cement that mayform a component of the reactive powder blend of some embodiments of theinvention.

High alumina cement is also commonly referred to as aluminous cement orcalcium aluminate cement. As the name implies, high alumina cements havea high alumina content, about 36-42 wt % is typical. Higher purity highalumina cements are also commercially available in which the aluminacontent can range as high as 80 wt %. These higher purity high aluminacements tend to be very expensive relative to other cements. The highalumina cements used in the compositions of some embodiments of theinvention are finely ground to facilitate entry of the aluminates intothe aqueous phase so that rapid formation of ettringite and othercalcium aluminate hydrates can take place. The surface area of the highalumina cement that may be used in some embodiments of the compositionof the invention will be greater than 3,000 cm²/gram and typically about4,000 to 6,000 cm²/gram as measured by the Blaine surface area method(ASTM C 204).

Several methods have emerged to manufacture high alumina cement.Typically, the main raw materials for manufacturing high alumina cementare bauxite and limestone. One manufacturing method used in the US forproducing high alumina cement is described as follows. The bauxite oreis first crushed and dried, then ground along with limestone. The drypowder comprising bauxite and limestone is then fed into a rotary kiln.A pulverized low-ash coal is used as fuel in the kiln. Reaction betweenbauxite and limestone takes place in the kiln and the molten productcollects in the lower end of the kiln and pours into a trough set at thebottom. The molten clinker is quenched with water to form granulates ofthe clinker, which is then conveyed to a stock-pile. The granulate isthen ground to the desired fineness to produce the final cement.

Several calcium aluminate compounds are formed during the manufacturingprocess of high alumina cement. The predominant compound formed ismonocalcium aluminate (CA). The other calcium aluminate and calciumsilicate compounds that are formed include C₁₂A₇, CA₂, C₂S, C₂AS.Several other compounds containing relatively high proportion of ironoxides are also formed. These include calcium ferrites such as CF andC₂F, and calcium alumino-ferrites such as C₄AF, C₆AF₂ and C₆A₂F. Otherminor constituents present in the high alumina cement include magnesia(MgO), titania (TiO₂), sulfates and alkalis. It should be noted thattri-calcium aluminate (C₃A) seen in ordinary Portland cement is notfound in high alumina cements.

Calcium Sulfate

Various forms of calcium sulfate as shown below may be used in theinvention to provide sulfate ions for forming ettringite and othercalcium sulfo-aluminate hydrate compounds:

Dihydrate—CaSO₄.2H₂O (commonly known as gypsum)

Hemihydrate—CaSO₄.½H₂O (commonly known as stucco)

Anhydrite—CaSO₄ (also referred to as anhydrous calcium sulfate)

Land plaster is a relatively low purity gypsum and is preferred due toeconomic considerations, although higher purity grades of gypsum couldbe used. Land plaster is made from quarried gypsum and ground torelatively small particles such that the specific surface area isgreater than 2,000 cm²/gram and typically about 4,000 to 6,000 cm²/gramas measured by the Blaine surface area method (ASTM C 204). The fineparticles are readily dissolved and supply the gypsum needed to formettringite. Synthetic gypsum obtained as a by-product from variousmanufacturing industries can also be used as a preferred calcium sulfatein the present invention. The other two forms of calcium sulfate,namely, hemihydrate and anhydrite may also be used in the presentinvention instead of gypsum, i.e., the dihydrate form of calciumsulfate.

Air-Entraining Agents (Foaming Agents)

When it is desired to produce the present lightweight products such aslightweight cement boards, air-entraining agents (foaming agents) may beadded in the composition to lighten the product. Air-entrainment agentsare generally suitable surfactants that form a stable and uniformstructure of air voids in the finished product. Accordingly the slurrycontains a suitable air entrainment or foaming agent in such amounts toproduce the desired degree of air entrainment.

Typically air entraining agents or foaming agents are surfactants,provided in an amount from about 0.0015 to 0.03 wt. %, based upon thetotal slurry weight. More preferably, the weight of these surfactantsranges between 0.002 to 0.02 wt. %, based upon the total slurry weight.For example, sodium alkyl ether sulfate, ammonium alkyl ether sulfate,sodium alpha olefin sulfonate (AOS), sodium deceth sulfate, ammoniumdeceth sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, or sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate are suitable air entraining and foaming surfactants that canbe used in the cementitious compositions of the invention.

In the cementitious compositions of the invention, externally producedfoam is preferably used to reduce slurry and product density. The foamis prepared using suitable surfactants (foaming agents) together withwater and air in proper proportions combined in foam generationequipment. The foam so produced is then introduced directly in to thewet mixture during the mixing operation while preparing cementitiousslurry.

Alkanolamines

In the present invention, different varieties of alkanolamines can beused alone or in combination to accelerate the setting characteristicsof the cementitious composition of the invention. Alkanolamines areamino alcohols that are strongly alkaline and cation active.Triethanolamine [N(CH₂—CH₂OH)₃] is the preferred alkanolamine. However,other alkanolamines, such as monoethanolamine [NH₂(CH₂—CH₂OH)],diethanolamine [NH(CH₂—CH₂OH)₂] may be substituted for triethanolamine(TEA) or used in combination with TEA.

Addition of alkanolamine alone, or in addition to phosphate (describedbelow), has a significant influence on the rapid setting characteristicsof the cementitious compositions of the invention when initiated atelevated temperatures, for example a slurry temperature greater than 90°F. (32° C.). Typically the slurry has an initial temperature of about90-150° F. (32-66° C.).

If used without phosphate the dosage of alkanolamine, preferablytriethanolamine, employed as an accelerator in the slurry is typicallyabout 0.025 to 4.0 wt. %, 0.05 to 2 wt. %, 0.05 to 1 wt. %, 0.05 to 0.40wt. %, 0.05 to 0.20 wt. %, or 0.05 to 0.10 wt. % based on the weight ofcementitious reactive powder.

Thus, for example, for every 100 pounds of cementitious reactive powderthere is about 0.025 to 4.0 pounds of alkanolamine in the mixture.

Phosphates

If desired, phosphates may optionally be used together withalkanolamine, e.g., triethanolamine, as an accelerator. Such phosphatesmay be one or more of sodium trimetaphosphate (STMP), potassiumtripolyphosphate (KTPP) and sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP)

The dosage of phosphate is about 0 to 1.5 wt. %, or 0.15 to 1.5 wt. %,or about 0.3 to 1.0 wt. %, or about 0.5 to 0.75 wt. % based on thecementitious reactive components of the invention. Thus, for example,for 100 pounds of cementitious reactive powder, there may be about 0 to1.5 pounds of phosphate.

The degree of rapid set obtained with the addition of an appropriatedosage of phosphate under conditions that yield slurry temperaturegreater than 90° F. (32° C.) allows a significant reduction ofalkanolamine in the absence of high alumina cement.

Retarders

Use of set retarders as a component in the compositions of the inventionis particularly helpful in situations where the initial slurrytemperatures used to form the cement-based products are particularlyhigh, typically greater than 100° F. (38° C.). At such relatively highinitial slurry temperatures, retarders such as sodium citrate or citricacid promote synergistic physical interaction and chemical reactionbetween different reactive components in the compositions resulting infavorable slurry temperature rise response and rapid setting behavior.Without the addition of retarders, stiffening of the reactive powderblend of the invention may occur very rapidly, soon after water is addedto the mixture. Rapid stiffening of the mixture, also referred to hereas “false setting” is undesirable, since it interferes with the properand complete formation of ettringite, hinders the normal formation ofcalcium silicate hydrates at later stages, and leads to development ofextremely poor and weak microstructure of the hardened cementitiousmortar.

The primary function of a retarder in the composition is to keep theslurry mixture from stiffening too rapidly thereby promoting synergisticphysical interaction and chemical reaction between the differentreactive components. Other secondary benefits derived from the additionof retarder in the composition include reduction in the amount ofsuperplasticizer and/or water required to achieve a slurry mixture ofworkable consistency. All of the aforementioned benefits are achieveddue to suppression of false setting. Examples of some useful setretarders include sodium citrate, citric acid, potassium tartrate,sodium tartrate, and the like. In the compositions of the invention,sodium citrate is the preferred set retarder. Furthermore, since setretarders prevent the slurry mixture from stiffening too rapidly, theiraddition plays an important role and is instrumental in the formation ofgood edges during the cement board manufacturing process. The weightratio of the set retarder to the cementitious reactive powder blendgenerally is less than 1.0 wt. %, preferably about 0.04-0.3 wt. %.

Inorganic Secondary Set Accelerators

In combination with the above-discussed alkanolamines and optionalphosphates, other inorganic set accelerators may be added as inorganicsecondary set accelerators in the cementitious composition of theinvention.

Addition of these inorganic secondary set accelerators is expected toimpart only a small reduction in setting time in comparison to thereduction achieved due to the addition of the combination ofalkanolamines and optional phosphates. Examples of such inorganicsecondary set accelerators include a sodium carbonate, potassiumcarbonate, calcium nitrate, calcium nitrite, calcium formate, calciumacetate, calcium chloride, lithium carbonate, lithium nitrate, lithiumnitrite, aluminum sulfate and the like. The use of calcium chlorideshould be avoided when corrosion of cement board fasteners is ofconcern.

The weight ratio of the secondary inorganic set accelerator to thecementitious reactive powder blend typically will be less than 2 wt %,preferably about 0.0 to 1 wt %. In other words, for 100 pounds ofcementitious reactive powder there is typically less than 2 pounds,preferably about 0.0 to 1 pounds, of secondary inorganic setaccelerator. These secondary set accelerators can be used alone or incombination.

Other Chemical Additives and Ingredients

Other additives including water reducing agents such assuperplasticizers, shrinkage control agents, slurry viscosity modifyingagents (thickeners), coloring agents and internal curing agents, may beincluded as desired depending upon the processability and application ofthe cementitious composition of the invention.

Chemical additives such as water reducing agents (superplasticizers) maybe included in the compositions of the invention and added in the dryform or in the form of a solution. Superplasticizers help to reduce thewater demand of the mixture. Examples of superplasticizers includepolynapthalene sulfonates, polyacrylates, polycarboxylates,lignosulfonates, melamine sulfonates, and the like.

Depending upon the type of superplasticizer used, the weight ratio ofthe superplasticizer (on dry powder basis) to the reactive cementitiouspowder typically will be about 2 wt. % or less, preferably about 0.1 to1.0 wt. %, more preferably about 0.0 to 0.50 wt. %, and most preferablyabout 0.0 to 0.20 wt. %. Thus, for example, when superplasticizer ispresent in the range 0.1 to 1.0 wt. %, for every 100 pounds ofcementitious reactive powder in the mixture, there may be about 0.1 to 1pounds of superplasticizer.

Other chemical admixtures such as shrinkage control agents, coloringagents, viscosity modifying agents (thickeners) and internal curingagents may also be added in the compositions of the invention ifdesired.

Aggregates, Fillers and Scrims

While the disclosed cementitious reactive powder blend defines the rapidsetting component of the cementitious composition of the invention, itwill be understood by those skilled in the art that other materials maybe included in the composition depending on its intended use andapplication.

For instance, for cement board applications, it is desirable to producelightweight boards without unduly comprising the desired mechanicalproperties of the product. This objective is achieved by addinglightweight aggregates and lightweight fillers. Examples of usefullightweight aggregates and fillers include blast furnace slag, volcanictuft, pumice, expanded forms of clay, shale, hollow ceramic spheres,hollow plastic spheres, expanded plastic beads, and the like. Forproducing cement boards, expanded clay and shale aggregates areparticularly useful. Expanded plastic beads and hollow plastic sphereswhen used in the composition are employed in very small quantity onweight basis owing to their extremely low bulk density.

Pumice used as lightweight aggregate is a hydrated aggregate (filler)and not cement. In contrast, pumice used as pozzolanic mineral additive(describe in the above-listed section entitled “Mineral Additives”) is anon-hydrated form and falls within the ASTM C618-97 definition ofpozzolanic materials as “siliceous or siliceous and aluminous materialswhich in themselves possess little or no cementitious value, but will,in finely divided form and in the presence of moisture, chemically reactwith calcium hydroxide at ordinary temperatures to form compoundspossessing cementitious properties.”

Depending on the choice of lightweight aggregate or filler selected, theweight ratio of the lightweight aggregate or filler to the reactivepowder blend may be about 1/100 to 200/100, preferably about 2/100 to125/100. For example, for making lightweight cement boards, the weightratio of the lightweight aggregate or filler to the cementitiousreactive powder blend may be about 2/100 to 125/100.

However, as mentioned above, preferably the total of expanded andchemically coated perlite filler and secondary fillers, for exampleexpanded clay, shale aggregate and/or pumice, is at least 20% wt.

Moisture content of aggregates adversely affects the setting time of thecementitious mixtures. Thus, aggregates and fillers having low watercontent are preferred in the present invention.

Discrete reinforcing fibers of different types may also be included inthe cementitious compositions of the invention. Scrims made of materialssuch as polymer-coated glass fibers and polymeric materials such aspolypropylene, polyethylene and nylon may be used to reinforce thecement-based product depending upon its function and application. Cementboards, produced according the present invention, are typicallyreinforced with scrims made of polymer-coated glass fibers.

Manufacturing of Precast Concrete Products Such as Cement Boards

Precast concrete products such as cement boards are manufactured mostefficiently in a continuous process in which the reactive powder blendis blended with aggregates, fillers and other ingredients, followed byaddition of water and other chemical additives just prior to placing themixture in a mold or over a continuous casting and forming belt.

Due to the rapid setting characteristics of the cementitious mixture themixing of dry components of the cementitious blend with water usuallywill be done just prior to the casting operation. As a consequence ofthe formation of hydrates of calcium aluminate compounds and theassociated water consumption in substantial quantities, the cement-basedproduct becomes rigid, and ready to be cut, handled and stacked forfurther curing.

Thus, the cementitious reactive composition of the invention is combinedwith a suitable amount of water to hydrate the cementitious reactivepowder and to rapidly form ettringite and other hydrates of calciumaluminate compounds. Generally, the amount of water added will begreater than theoretically required for the hydration of thecementitious reactive powder. This increased water demand is allowed tofacilitate the workability of the cementitious slurry. Typically, theweight ratio of the water to cementitious reactive powder blend is about0.20/1 to 0.80/1, preferably about 0.45/1 to 0.65/1. The amount of waterdepends on the needs of the individual materials present in thecementitious composition.

Ettringite and other hydrates of calcium aluminate compounds form veryrapidly in the hydration process thus imparting rapid set and rigidityto the mixtures made with the reactive powder blend of the cementitiouscomposition of the invention. In manufacturing of cement-based productssuch as cement boards, it is primarily the formation of ettringite andother calcium aluminate hydrates that makes possible handling of cementboards within a few minutes after the cementitious composition of theinvention is mixed with a suitable amount of water.

Setting of the composition is characterized by initial and final settimes, as measured using Gillmore needles specified in the ASTM C266test procedure, as well as high initial compressive strength. The finalset time also corresponds to the time when a cement-based product e.g. acement board, has sufficiently hardened so that it can be handled. Itwill be understood by those skilled in the art that curing reactionscontinue for extended periods after the final setting time has beenreached.

The slurry is typically formed under conditions which provide aninitially high slurry temperature. The initial slurry temperature shouldbe at least about 40° F. (4.4° C.). For example, the initial slurrytemperature may be at least about 90° F. (32° C.). Slurry temperaturesin the range of 90° F. to 150° F. (320 to 66° C.) produce very shortsetting times. In general, within this range increasing the initialtemperature of the slurry increases the rate of temperature rise as thereactions proceed and reduces the setting time. Thus, an initial slurrytemperature of 95° F. (35° C.) is preferred over an initial slurrytemperature of 90° F. (32° C.), a temperature of 100° F. (38° C.) ispreferred over 95° F. (35° C.), a temperature of 105° F. (41° C.) ispreferred over 100° F. (38° C.), a temperature of 110° F. (43° C.) ispreferred over 105° F. (41° C.) and so on. It is believed the benefitsof increasing the initial slurry temperature decrease as the upper endof the broad temperature range is approached.

As will be understood by those skilled in the art, achieving an initialslurry temperature may be accomplished by more than one method. Perhapsthe most convenient method is to heat one or more of the components ofthe slurry. In the examples, the present inventors supplied water heatedto a temperature such that, when added to the dry reactive powders andunreactive solids, the resulting slurry is at the desired temperature.Alternatively, if desired the solids could be provided at above ambienttemperatures. Using steam to provide heat to the slurry is anotherpossible method that could be adopted. Although not preferred, a slurrycould be prepared at ambient temperatures and promptly heated to raisethe temperature to about 90° F. or higher, where the benefits of theinvention can be achieved. The initial slurry temperature is preferablyabout 120° F. to 130° F. (490 to 54° C.).

Example 1

The following examples illustrates producing lightweight cement boardsin a commercial manufacturing process using cementitious compositions ofthe invention. The raw materials used included a cementitious reactivepowder of Portland cement Type III, class F fly ash, and calcium sulfatedihydrate (landplaster), chemically coated perlite, expanded clay andshale aggregate and added liquids. The liquids, e.g., triethanolamine,were admixtures added as aqueous solutions. In addition, sodium citrateand sulfonated napthalene superplasticizer were added to control thefluidity of the mixes. These admixtures were added as weight percentageof the total reactive powder.

TABLE 2 shows specific composition used to produce 0.5 inch (1.27 cm)thick lightweight cement panels having a density of about 56 pounds percubic foot (pcf) (0.9 g/cc).

TABLE 2 Example 1 lightweight cementitious composition Ingredient Weight% Volume % Portland cement-based binder 47.8 14.4 (cementitious reactivepowder)¹ Chemically coated perlite 4.8 17.2 Expanded clay and shaleaggregate 21.5 12.9 Total Liquids² 25.8 23.1 Entrained Air³ — 32.5¹Portland Cement-100 parts by weight; Fly Ash 30 parts by weight; LandPlaster- 3 parts by weight ²Total liquids is a combination of water plusthe following chemical additives added to water to form a solution:Aluminum Sulfate-0.10 wt. % based on weight of Portland cement-basedbinder Triethanolamine-0.30 wt. % based on weight of Portlandcement-based binder Napthalene Sulfonate based superplasticizer - 0.30wt. % based on weight of Portland cement-based binder SodiumCitrate-0.20 wt. % based on weight of Portland cement-based binder³Entrained Air in the composite provided by using sodium alpha olefinsulfonate (AOS) surfactant. The surfactant was added at a dosage rate of0.009 wt. % of the total product weight.

The chemically coated perlite was SILBRICO brand perlite, model SIL-CELL35-23 having a median particle diameter of 40 microns and an alkylalkoxy silane coating.

Entrained air in the board was introduced by means of surfactant foamthat was prepared separately and added directly to the wet cementitiousslurry in the slurry mixer. Sodium alpha olefin sulfonate (AOS)surfactant in a water-based solution was used to prepare the foam. Thesurfactant concentration in the water-based solution was 0.90 wt %. Itshould be noted that a combination of entrained air, perlite, andexpanded clay aggregate in the composition was responsible for achievingthe targeted low slurry density.

The manufactured cement boards were skin-reinforced usingalkali-resistant, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) coated fiberglass meshembedded in cementitious slurry. The reinforcing mesh was manufacturedby Saint-Gobain Technical Fabrics.

The composition included in the example was combined using a weightratio of water to cement (cementitious reactive powder) of 0.54:1 and aweight ratio of expanded shale aggregate to cementitious reactive powderratio of 0.45:1. The dry reactive powder ingredients, perlite, andaggregate used were mixed with water under conditions which provided aninitial slurry temperature above ambient. Hot water was used having atemperature which produced slurry having an initial temperature withinthe range of 125° to 140° F. (51.7° to 60.0° C.).

The dosage rates of various chemical-additives (triethanolamine, sodiumcitrate, aluminum sulfate and naphthalene sulfonate superplasticizer)were adjusted to achieve desired flow behavior and rapid-settingcharacteristics.

The manufactured cement boards were hard and could be handled within 10minutes subsequent to slurry preparation and board formation.

Mechanical testing was conducted to characterize the physical propertiesof the manufactured lightweight cement boards.

Flexural strength was measured according to the testing per ASTM C 947.

Maximum deflection was measured using the flexural load versusdeflection plot obtained for a specimen tested in flexure per ASTM C947. Maximum deflection represents the displacement of the specimen atthe middle-third loading points corresponding to the peak load.

Nail pull strength was measure according to the testing per ASTM D1037.

Two days after manufacturing, the boards were tested forcharacterization of flexural performance per ASTM C947. TABLE 3 showsthe flexural performance of tested boards. Results shown in the tabledemonstrate the panels developed excellent flexural strength andflexural ductility.

TABLE 3 Flexural performance of cement boards made using the lightweightcementitious composition of Example 1 Flexural Maximum Deflection SampleOrientation Strength (psi) (inches) Machine Direction 1262 0.99Cross-Machine Direction 1138 0.94

TABLE 4 shows the nail pull performance of the manufactured panels. Thepanels were tested for nail pull strength in accordance with Test MethodD 1037 utilizing a roofing nail with a 0.375 in. (10 mm) diameter headand a shank diameter of 0.121 in. (3 mm). The data shown in TABLE 4demonstrates satisfactory nail pull performance of the panels of theinvention.

TABLE 4 Nail pull performance of cement boards made using thecomposition of Example 1 Sample Orientation Nail Pull Strength (lbs.)Face-Up 135 Face-Down 133

Example 2

The following example illustrates producing lightweight cement boards ina commercial manufacturing process using cementitious composition of theinvention. The raw materials used included a cementitious reactivepowder of Portland cement Type III, class F fly ash, and calcium sulfatedihydrate (landplaster), chemically coated perlite, expanded clay andshale aggregate and added liquids. The liquids, e.g., triethanolamine,were admixtures added as aqueous solutions. In addition, sodium citrateand sulfonated napthalene superplasticizer were added to control thefluidity of the mixes. These admixtures were added as weight percentageof the total reactive powder.

TABLE 4 shows specific composition used to produce 0.5 inch thicklightweight cement panels having a density of about 60 pounds per cubicfoot (pcf) (0.96 g/cc).

TABLE 4 Example 2 lightweight cementitious composition Ingredient Weight% Volume % Portland cement-based binder 47.8 15.2 (cementitious reactivepowder)¹ Chemically coated perlite 5.7 21.9 Expanded clay and shaleaggregate 16.7 10.6 Total Liquids² 29.7 28.1 Entrained Air³ — 24.2¹Portland Cement-100 parts by weight; Fly Ash 30 parts by weight; LandPlaster- 3 parts by weight ²Total liquids is a combination of water plusthe following chemical additives added to water to form a solution:Aluminum Sulfate-0.10 wt. % based on weight of Portland cement-basedbinder Triethanolamine-0.30 wt. % based on weight of Portlandcement-based binder Napthalene Sulfonate based superplasticizer - 0.30wt. % based on weight of Portland cement-based binder SodiumCitrate-0.20 wt. % based on weight of Portland cement-based binder³Entrained Air in the composite provided by using sodium alpha olefinsulfonate (AOS) surfactant. The surfactant was added at a dosage rate of0.005 wt. % of the total product weight.

The chemically coated perlite was SILBRICO brand perlite, model SIL-CELL35-23 having a median particle diameter of 40 microns and an alkylalkoxy silane coating. Entrained air in the board was introduced bymeans of surfactant foam that was prepared separately and added directlyto the wet cementitious slurry in the slurry mixer. Sodium alpha olefinsulfonate (AOS) surfactant in a water-based solution was used to preparethe foam. The surfactant concentration in the water-based solution was0.90 wt. %. It should be noted that a combination of entrained air,perlite, and expanded clay aggregate in the composition was responsiblefor achieving the targeted low slurry density.

The manufactured cement boards were skin-reinforced usingalkali-resistant, PVC coated fiberglass mesh embedded in cementitiousslurry. The reinforcing mesh was manufactured by Saint-Gobain TechnicalFabrics.

The composition included in the example was combined using a weightratio of water to cement (cementitious reactive powder) of 0.62:1 and aweight ratio of expanded shale aggregate to cementitious reactive powderratio of 0.35:1. The dry reactive powder ingredients, perlite, andaggregate used were mixed with water under conditions which provided aninitial slurry temperature above ambient. Hot water was used having atemperature which produced slurry having an initial temperature withinthe range of 125° F. to 140° F. (51.70 to 60.0° C.). The dosage rates ofchemical-additives (triethanolamine, sodium citrate, aluminum sulfateand naphthalene sulfonate superplasticizer) were adjusted to achievedesired flow behavior and rapid-setting characteristics.

The manufactured cement boards were hard and could be handled within 10minutes subsequent to slurry preparation and board formation.

Mechanical testing was conducted to characterize the physical propertiesof the manufactured lightweight cement boards. Flexural strength wasmeasured according to the testing per ASTM C 947. Maximum deflection wasmeasured using the flexural load versus deflection plot obtained for aspecimen tested in flexure per ASTM C 947. Maximum deflection representsthe displacement of the specimen at the middle-third loading pointscorresponding to the peak load. Nail pull strength was measure accordingto the testing per ASTM D1037.

Two days after manufacturing, the boards were tested forcharacterization of flexural performance per ASTM C947. TABLE 5 showsthe flexural performance of tested boards. Results shown in the tabledemonstrate the panels developed excellent flexural strength andflexural ductility.

TABLE 5 Flexural performance of cement boards made using the lightweightcementitious composition of Example 2 Flexural Maximum Deflection SampleOrientation Strength (psi) (inches) Machine Direction 1249 0.94Cross-Machine Direction 1111 0.95

TABLE 6 shows the nail pull performance of the manufactured panels. Thepanels were tested for nail pull strength in accordance with Test MethodD 1037 utilizing a roofing nail with a 0.375 in. (9.5 mm) diameter headand a shank diameter of 0.121 in. (3 mm). The data shown in TABLE 6demonstrates satisfactory nail pull performance of the panels of theinvention.

TABLE 6 Nail pull performance of cement boards made using thecomposition of Example 2 Sample Orientation Nail Pull Strength (lbs.)Face-Up 136 Face-Down 139

Example 3

The mesh reinforced cementitious panels from Example 2 were tested fortheir suitability as a substrate for bonding ceramic tiles. Quarry tileswere bonded to cement panels of Example 2 utilizing a latex modifiedcementitious thin-set mortar conforming to ANSI A118.4 standard.LATICRETE® 317 Floor N′ Wall Thin Set Mortarwas mixed with LA TICRETE®333 Super Flexible Additive to prepare the thin-set mortar for bondingtiles to cement board. The prepared specimens were cured for 28-days andtested per ANSI A118.10 standard to characterize shear-bond strength.TABLE 7 shows the shear-bond strength of the tested specimen. From thedata, it can be observed that the specimen developed a shear-bondstrength of 241 psi (1.66 MPa), which far exceeds the minimum shear-bondstrength requirement of 50 psi (0.34 MPa) per ANSI A118.10 standard.This testing demonstrates that cementitious formulations and products ofthe invention develop extremely good shear-bond strength with ceramictiles and cement mortar.

TABLE 7 Shear strength of cement board to ceramic tiles and cementmortar Cement Board Identification Shear Strength (psi) Cement Boardfrom Example 2 241 (60 pcf density)

Example 4

The mesh reinforced cementitious panels from Example 2 were tested forwaterproofness by characterizing their ability to resist waterpenetration through the panel thickness when the top surface of thepanel was subjected to a hydrostatic pressure of 24 inches (61 cm). Aplastic hollow tube, 24 inches (61 cm) long and having an internaldiameter of 2 inches (5.1 cm) was adhesively mounted to the top panelsurface. The tube was filled with water to a height of 24 inches (61cm). At the end of 48-hours, the bottom surface of the panel wasmonitored to check for wetness or for formation of water droplets. Nowetness or formation of water droplets were observed on the bottom panelsurface at the end of 48-hours. This result thus demonstrateswaterproofing characteristic of the panel per ANSI A118.10 standard. Itis particularly noteworthy that the panels of the invention displaywaterproofing characteristics despite having extremely high porosity. Itis in fact the silane chemical coating on the SIL-CELL 35-23 particlesthat provides water repellency to the cementitious core and resistspenetration of water through the product thickness.

Example 5

The mesh reinforced cementitious panels from Example 2 were tested fortheir stability and durability under repeated freezing and thawingexposure. The panels were subjected to multiple freeze-thaw cycles perASTM C1185 standard. One freeze-thaw cycle comprised of the following:i. maintaining the samples at 4° C. for 1 hour, ii. cooling the samplesto a temperature of −17° C. in next 1 hour, iii. maintaining the samplesat −17° C. for another 1 hour, and finally, iv. thawing the samples to atemperature of 4° C. in next one hour. The panels were subjected to atotal of 300 freeze-thaw cycles. The tested panels did not developcracking, delamination, or any other type of damage at the completion of300 freeze-thaw cycles. This testing thus demonstrated excellentfreeze-thaw stability and durability performance of the panels of theinvention.

Example 6

The mesh reinforced cementitious panels from Example 2 were tested fortheir resistance to mold growth per ASTM D3273, fungal growth per ASTMG21, and bacteria growth per ASTM G22. TABLE 8 summarizes the resultsobtained from the investigation. From the results shown in TABLE 8 itcan be clearly observed that the cement formulations and products of theinvention intrinsically possess extremely good resistance to mold,bacteria, and fungal growth.

TABLE 8 Mold resistance, bacteria resistance and fungus resistance ofcement panels from Example 2 Property ASTM Standard Result MoldResistance ASTM D3273 10 (No Growth)  Fungus Resistance ASTM G21 0 (NoGrowth) Bacteria Resistance ASTM G22 0 (No Growth)

Example 7

The following example illustrates producing lightweight cement boardshaving a density of about 50 pounds per cubic foot (pcf) (0.8 g/cc) in acommercial manufacturing process using cementitious composition of theinvention. The raw materials used included a cementitious reactivepowder of Portland cement Type III, class F fly ash, and calcium sulfatedihydrate (landplaster), chemically coated perlite, expanded clay andshale aggregate and added liquids. The liquids, e.g., triethanolamine,were admixtures added as aqueous solutions. In addition, sodium citrateand sulfonated napthalene superplasticizer were added to control thefluidity of the mixes. These admixtures were added as weight percentageof the total reactive powder.

TABLE 9 shows specific composition used to produce 0.5 inch (1.27 cm)thick lightweight cement panels having a density of about 50 pcf (0.8g/cc).

TABLE 9 Example 7 Lightweight Cementitious Composition Ingredient Weight% Volume % Portland cement-based binder 47.8 12.7 (cementitious reactivepowder)¹ Chemically coated perlite 5.7 18.2 Expanded clay and shaleaggregate 16.7 8.9 Total Liquids² 29.7 23.4 Entrained Air³ — 36.8¹Portland Cement-100 parts by weight; Fly Ash 30 parts by weight; LandPlaster-3 parts by weight ²Total liquids is a combination of water plusthe following chemical additives added to water to form a solution:Aluminum Sulfate-0.10 wt. % based on weight of Portland cement-basedbinder Triethanolamine-0.30 wt. % based on weight of Portlandcement-based binder Napthalene Sulfonate based superplasticizer-0.30 wt.% based on weight of Portland cement-based binder Sodium Citrate-0.20wt. % based on weight of Portland cement-based binder ³Entrained Air inthe composite provided by using sodium alpha olefin sulfonate (AOS)surfactant. The surfactant was added at a dosage rate of 0.007 wt. % ofthe total product weight.

The chemically coated perlite was SILBRICO brand perlite, model SIL-CELL35-23 having a median particle diameter of 40 microns and an alkylalkoxy silane coating. Entrained air in the board was introduced bymeans of surfactant foam that was prepared separately and added directlyto the wet cementitious slurry in the slurry mixer. Sodium alpha olefinsulfonate (AOS) surfactant in a water-based solution was used to preparethe foam. The surfactant concentration in the water-based solution was0.90 wt. %. It should be noted that a combination of entrained air,perlite, and expanded clay aggregate in the composition was responsiblefor achieving the targeted low slurry density.

The manufactured cement boards were skin-reinforced usingalkali-resistant, PVC coated fiberglass mesh embedded in cementitiousslurry. The reinforcing mesh was manufactured by Saint-Gobain TechnicalFabrics.

The composition included in the example was combined using a weightratio of water to cement (cementitious reactive powder) of 0.62:1 and aweight ratio of expanded shale aggregate to cementitious reactive powderratio of 0.35:1. The dry reactive powder ingredients, perlite, andaggregate used were mixed with water under conditions which provided aninitial slurry temperature above ambient. Hot water was used having atemperature which produced slurry having an initial temperature withinthe range of 125° F. to 140° F. (51.7° to 60.0° C.). The dosage rates ofchemical-additives (triethanolamine, sodium citrate, aluminum sulfateand naphthalene sulfonate superplasticizer) were adjusted to achievedesired flow behavior and rapid-setting characteristics.

The manufactured cement boards were hard and could be handled within 10minutes subsequent to slurry preparation and board formation.

Mechanical testing was conducted to characterize the physical propertiesof the manufactured lightweight cement boards. Flexural strength wasmeasured according to the testing per ASTM C 947. Maximum deflection wasmeasured using the flexural load versus deflection plot obtained for aspecimen tested in flexure per ASTM C 947. Maximum deflection representsthe displacement of the specimen at the middle-third loading pointscorresponding to the peak load. Nail pull strength was measure accordingto the testing per ASTM D1037.

Two days after manufacturing, the boards were tested forcharacterization of flexural performance per ASTM C947. TABLE 10 showsthe flexural performance of tested boards. Results shown in the tabledemonstrate the panels developed excellent flexural strength andflexural ductility.

TABLE 10 Flexural performance of cement boards made using thelightweight cementitious composition of Example 7 Flexural MaximumDeflection Sample Orientation Strength (psi) (inches) Machine Direction1199 1.07 Cross-Machine Direction 1254 1.04

TABLE 11 shows the nail pull performance of the manufactured panels. Thepanels were tested for nail pull strength in accordance with Test MethodD 1037 utilizing a roofing nail with a 0.375 inches (9.5 mm) diameterhead and a shank diameter of 0.121 inches (3 mm). The data shown inTABLE 6 demonstrates satisfactory nail pull performance of the panels ofthe invention.

TABLE 11 Nail pull performance of cement boards made using thecomposition of Example 7 Sample Orientation Nail Pull Strength (lbs.)Face-Up 129 Face-Down 126

Example 8

Durability performance of the ½ inch (1.27 cm) thick panels from Example7 was tested using the ASTM C627 Robinson Floor test, hereinincorporated by reference. Sample floor for the test was prepared on23/32 inches (1.83 cm) thick plywood panels laid on wooden joists spaced16 inches on-center. The ½ inch (1.27 cm) thick cement panels wereattached to the plywood using latex modified thin set mortar andmechanical fasteners (1⅝ inch (4.13 cm) long wood screws) spaced 8inches (20 cm) on-center. Two-inch wide ceramic tiles were then laid onthe cement board using latex modified thin-set mortar followed bygrouting the tile joints 24-hours after the installation of ceramictiles. The floor sample was allowed to cure for 28 days from the date ofmanufacture before the test was performed.

During the Robinson Floor Test, wheels of varying hardness and carryingvarying loads are sequentially moved over the finished tile surface for900 revolutions each. After completion of each cycle, the tiles arestudied to determine if any of them are loose, broken or chipped. Thegrout is examined to establish if it has popped, cracked or powdered.

The tested floor showed no defects in the tile or grout through the11^(th) cycle of the test. The floor failed on the 12^(th) cycle thusattaining a rating of “Moderate Commercial” per TCA 2007 Handbook forCeramic Tile Installation, published by Tile Council of North America(TCNA).

Example 9

This example demonstrates effectiveness and influence of appliedchemical coating on the chosen perlite fillers of the invention.

Three different perlite filler types were investigated:

-   -   1. SIL-CELL 35-BC Perlite: This perlite filler has a bulk        density of about 8 pcf (0.13 g/cc), median particle size of 40        microns, and has no coating applied on the particle surface.    -   2. SIL-CELL 35-23 Perlite: This perlite filler has a bulk        density of about 8 pcf (0.13 g/cc), median particle size of 40        microns, and a silane coating applied on the particle surface.        Essentially, SIL-CELL 35-23 perlite is same as the SIL-CELL        35-BC perlite but additionally with a silane coating applied on        the particle surface.    -   3. SIL-CELL 35-34 Perlite: This perlite filler has a bulk        density of about 8 pcf (0.13 g/cc), median particle size of 40        microns, and a silicone coating applied on the particle surface.        Essentially, SIL-CELL 35-34 perlite is same as SIL-CELL 35-BC        perlite but additionally with a silicone coating applied on the        particle surface.

All three perlite fillers investigated were produced by SilbricoCorporation. TABLE 12 shows compositions of the mixes investigatedcontaining the above perlite fillers.

TABLE 12 Mix proportions of perlite mixes investigated in Example 9Ingredient Mix #1 (wt. %) Mix #2 (wt. %) Mix #3 (wt. %) Portland Cement36.3 36.3 36.3 Type III Fly Ash Class C 10.9 10.9 10.9 Land Plaster 1.11.1 1.1 Expanded Shale 16.9 16.9 16.9 Aggregate Expanded Perlite 5.8 5.85.8 (SIL-CELL 35-BC) (SIL-CELL (SIL-CELL 35-23) 35-34) Water 29.0 29.029.0

No liquid additives and no air entrainment were used in thisinvestigation. All materials were mixed together under ambientconditions at a room temperature of 70° F. (21° C.). TABLE 13 summarizesthe results from the investigation. Important results and conclusionsare discussed below:

-   -   Mix #1 with uncoated perlite (SIL-CELL 35-BC) led to a slurry        having extremely stiff consistency. On the other hand, Mixes #2        and #3 with coated perlite led to slurries having flowable        consistencies. Uncoated SIL-CELL 35-BC filler absorb large        amount of mix water thereby reducing the amount of water        available to the cement paste. This makes the slurry extremely        stiff and less workable. On the other hand, SIL-CELL 35-23 and        SIL-CELL 35-34 perlite particles have a water-repellant chemical        coating on the particle surface. These coatings greatly reduce        the amount absorbed by the particle themselves. Thus, the        slurries (Mixes #2 and #3) with these two coated perlite fillers        have significantly better consistency and possess superior flow        characteristics due to the higher amount of water availability        in the cement paste.    -   Mix #1 with uncoated perlite (SIL-CELL 35-BC) led to a slurry        having highest slurry density. On the other hand, Mixes #2 and        #3 with coated perlite fillers led to slurries having slurry        densities significantly lower than for Mix #1 with uncoated        perlite. It is noteworthy that all three mixes investigated in        this example had same amount of perlite filler, yet the        resulting slurries for the three mixes ended up with very        different densities. Absorption of water by the uncoated perlite        filler (SIL-CELL 35-BC) in Mix #1 increased the weight and        density of the perlite filler during mixing. Increased density        of the SIL-CELL 35-BC perlite filler due to water absorption        thus led to a relatively high slurry density for Mix #1. On the        other hand, the water absorption of the coated perlite fillers        (SIL-CELL 35-23 and SIL-CELL 35-34) was minimal, thus, the        weight and density of the coated perlite fillers did not        increase appreciably during mixing. The extremely low water        absorption of the SIL-CELL 35-23 and SIL-CELL 35-34 perlite        fillers and their consequent lower effective density thus        ultimately led to lower slurry densities for Mixes #2 and #3.    -   The effective particle density of the uncoated perlite filler,        i.e., SIL-CELL 35-BC perlite, was found to be 0.45 g/cc. In        comparison, the coated perlite fillers were found to have        significantly lower effective particle density. For instance,        silane coated SIL-CELL 35-23 perlite filler were found to have        an effective particle density of 0.25 g/cc.    -   Comparing the slurry density results for the three mixes and        three perlite fillers investigated in this example it can easily        be seen that the amount of perlite filler required to achieve        any target slurry density would be highest for the compositions        utilizing the uncoated perlite filler (i.e., SIL-CELL 35-BC        perlite).

TABLE 13 Results for the mixes investigated in Example 9 Mix #1 Mix #2Mix #3 (SIL-CELL (SIL-CELL (SIL-CELL 35-BC - 35-23 - 35-34 - UncoatedSilane coated Silicone coated Property perlite particles) perliteparticles) perlite particles) Slurry Extremely Stiff Flowable FlowableConsistency Slurry Density 91.5 79.3 76.7 (pcf) Calculated 0.45 0.250.23 effective particle density of perlite filler (g/cc)

Example 10

This example demonstrates influence of the size of coated perliteparticles on mix properties. Two different perlite fillers wereinvestigated:

-   -   1. SIL-CELL 35-23 Perlite: This perlite filler has a bulk        density of about 8 pcf (0.13 g/cc), median particle size of 40        microns, and a silane coating applied on the particle surface.    -   2. Ryolex Silicone-Treated Masonry Fill Perlite: This perlite        filler has a bulk density of about 7 pcf (0.11 g/cc), median        particle size of 1180 microns, and a silicone coating applied on        the particle surface.

Both perlite fillers investigated were produced by Silbrico Corporation.TABLE 14 shows compositions of the mixes investigated containing theabove perlite fillers.

TABLE 14 Mix proportions of perlite mixes investigated in Example 10Ingredient Mix #1 (wt. %) Mix #2 (wt. %) Portland Cement 36.3 36.3 TypeIII Fly Ash Class C 10.9 10.9 Land Plaster 1.1 1.1 Expanded Shale 16.916.9 Aggregate Coated Expanded 5.8 5.8 Perlite (SIL-CELL (Ryolex 35-23)Silicone-Treated Masonry Fill) Water 29.0 29.0

No liquid additives and no air entrainment were used in thisinvestigation.

All materials were mixed together under ambient conditions at a roomtemperature of 70° F. (21° C.). TABLE 15 summarizes the results from theinvestigation. Important results and conclusions are discussed below:

-   -   Mix #2 with coated perlite filler having larger particle size        (Ryolex Silicone-Treated Masonry Fill) led to a slurry having        extremely stiff consistency. On the other hand, Mix #1 with        coated perlite filler having smaller particle size (SIL-CELL        35-23) led to a slurry having flowable consistency. It is        believed that larger perlite particles tend to be weak and prone        to breakage during mixing. Breakage of perlite particles during        mixing increases the water absorption of the particles thereby        reducing the water available to the cement paste. This makes the        slurry extremely stiff and less workable. On the other hand,        SIL-CELL 35-23 perlite particles are significantly stronger in        comparison owing to their small size and closed-cell honeycomb        construction. The perlite particles with smaller size are        therefore more tolerant to damage from mechanical agitation and        mixing. This behavior keeps the water absorption of the perlite        particles low and increases the amount of water available to the        cement paste. Thus, the slurry with smaller sized perlite filler        (SIL-CELL 35-23) has significantly better consistency and        possesses superior flow characteristics due to the higher amount        of water availability in the cement paste.    -   Mix #2 with coated perlite filler having larger particle size        (Ryolex Silicone-Treated Masonry Fill) led to a mixture having        very high slurry density. In comparison, Mix #1 with coated        perlite filler having smaller particle size (SIL-CELL 35-23) led        to a mixture having significantly lower slurry density. It is        noteworthy that both mixes investigated in this example had same        amount of perlite filler by weight, yet the resulting mixtures        for the two mixes ended up with very different slurry densities.        Particle breakage and high water absorption of larger sized        perlite particles (Ryolex Silicone-Treated Masonry Fill) are        believed to be the primary reasons that led to higher slurry        density for Mix #2.    -   The effective particle density of the smaller sized perlite        filler (i.e., SIL-CELL 35-23) was found to be 0.25 g/cc. In        comparison, the larger sized perlite filler (Ryolex        Silicone-Treated Masonry Fill) was found to have a significantly        higher effective particle density equaling 0.80 g/cc. It is        believed particle breakage and higher water absorption of the        larger sized perlite filler used in Mix #2 led to a        significantly higher effective particle density for Ryolex        Silicone-Treated Masonry Fill perlite.    -   Comparing the slurry density results for the two mixes        investigated in this example it can easily be seen that the        amount of perlite filler required to achieve any target slurry        density would be highest for the compositions utilizing the        larger sized perlite filler (i.e., Ryolex Silicone-Treated        Masonry Fill perlite).

TABLE 15 Results for the mixes investigated in Example 10 Mix #2 Mix #1(Ryolex Silicone- (SIL-CELL 35-23 - Treated Masonry Fill - Silane coatedSilicone coated Property perlite particles) perlite particles) SlurryConsistency Flowable Extremely Stiff Slurry Density (pcf) 79.3 96.8Calculated effective particle 0.25 0.80 density of perlite filler (g/cc)

Example 11

This example demonstrates rapid setting characteristics of thecementitious compositions of the invention. Mixes containing differentperlite filler types were investigated:

-   -   1. SIL-CELL 35-BC Perlite: This perlite filler has a bulk        density of about 8 pcf (0.13 g/cc), median particle size of 40        microns, and has no coating applied on the particle surface.    -   2. SIL-CELL 35-23 Perlite: This perlite filler has a bulk        density of about 8 pcf (0.13 g/cc), median particle size of 40        microns, and a silane coating applied on the particle surface.        Essentially, SIL-CELL 35-23 perlite is same as the SIL-CELL        35-BC perlite but additionally with a silane coating applied on        the particle surface.    -   3. SIL-CELL 35-34 Perlite: This perlite filler has a bulk        density of about 8 pcf (0.13 g/cc), median particle size of 40        microns, and a silicone coating applied on the particle surface.        Essentially, SIL-CELL 35-34 perlite is same as SIL-CELL 35-BC        perlite but additionally with a silicone coating applied on the        particle surface.

All three perlite fillers investigated were produced by SilbricoCorporation. TABLE 16 shows compositions of the mixes investigatedcontaining the above perlite fillers. It should be noted that the amountof perlite and total liquids added to the various mixes were adjusted toachieve constant slurry density and constant slurry slump between themixes investigated.

TABLE 16 Mix proportions of perlite mixes investigated in Example 11Ingredient Mix #1 (wt. %) Mix #2 (wt. %) Mix #3 (wt. %) Portland Cement28.9 36.4 36.4 Type III Fly Ash Class C 8.7 10.9 10.9 Land Plaster 0.91.1 1.1 Expanded Shale 13.5 17.1 16.9 Aggregate Expanded Perlite 9.6 5.65.0 (SIL-CELL (SIL-CELL (SIL-CELL 35-BC) 35-23) 35-34) Total Liquids¹38.5 29.0 29.2 ¹Total liquids is a combination of water plus thefollowing chemical additives added to water to form a solution: AluminumSulfate-0.00 wt. % based on weight of Portland cement-based bindercomprising of Portland Cement, Fly Ash and Land PlasterTriethanolamine-0.40 wt. % based on weight of Portland cement-basedbinder comprising of Portland Cement, Fly Ash and Land PlasterNapthalene Sulfonate based superplasticizer-0.10 wt. % based on weightof Portland cement-based binder comprising of Portland Cement, Fly Ashand Land Plaster Sodium Citrate-0.15 wt. % based on weight of Portlandcement-based binder comprising of Portland Cement, Fly Ash and LandPlaster

All materials were mixed together under conditions to obtain an initialslurry temperature of approximately 125° F. (52° C.). Slurry temperaturerise response for the mixes investigated was recorded and is shown inFIG. 1. TABLE 17 summarizes the results from the investigation. Finalset times were determined with Gillmore needles according to ASTM C266.

TABLE 17 Results for the mixes investigated in Example 11 Mix #1 Mix #2Mix #3 (SIL-CELL (SIL-CELL (SIL-CELL Property 35-BC) 35-23) 35-34) MixConsistency Flowable Flowable Flowable Initial Slump (inches) 4½″ 4½″4½″ Maximum Temperature Rise 154.5 168.8 165.1 (° F.) Final Set Time(minutes) >120.0 6.0 7.0

Important results and conclusions from the investigation are discussedbelow:

The temperature rise response for the mixes containing coated perlitefillers (Mix 2 and Mix 3) was superior to that of the mix with uncoatedperlite filler (Mix 1).

The mixes containing coated perlite fillers (Mix 2 and Mix 3) producedvery short and rapid setting behavior. The final set times for these twomixes ranged from 6 to 7 minutes. On the contrary, the mix with uncoatedperlite (Mix 1) had extremely slow setting behavior. The final set timefor this mix was not attained even 2 hours after the slurry cast.

From commercial manufacturing perspective, mixes containing coatedperlite fillers are preferred (SIL-CELL 35-23 and SIL-CELL 35-34) asthese mixes would provide rapid processing of products and superiorproduct strength and durability due to lower water usage in thecomposition.

Example 12

This example demonstrates influence of secondary filler addition, suchas, expanded clay/shale aggregate on physical properties of finishedproduct. The two mixes investigated are shown in TABLE 18.

TABLE 18 Example 12 lightweight cementitious compositions Ingredient Mix#1 Mix #2 Portland cement-based binder 59.0 48.3 (cementitious reactivepowder)¹, wt. % Chemically coated perlite, wt. % 5.6 5.7 Expanded shaleaggregate, wt. % 0.0 16.9 Total Liquids², wt. % 35.4 29.0 EntrainedAir³, vol. % 26.6 25.3 ¹Portland Cement-100 parts by weight ²Totalliquids is a combination of water plus the following chemical additivesadded to water to form a solution: Soda Ash-0.20 wt. % based on weightof Portland cement-based binder Triethanolamine-0.00 wt. % based onweight of Portland cement-based binder Napthalene Sulfonate basedsuperplasticizer-0.50 wt. % based on weight of Portland cement-basedbinder Sodium Citrate-0.05 wt. % based on weight of Portlandcement-based binder ³Alkyl Ether Sulfate (WITCOLATE 1276) surfactant.The surfactant was added at a dosage rate of 0.008 wt. % of the totalproduct weight.

The raw materials used included a cementitious reactive powder ofPortland cement Type III, chemically coated perlite, expanded shaleaggregate and added liquids. The liquids, e.g., sodium citrate, wereadmixtures added as aqueous solutions. In addition, sodium carbonate andsulfonated napthalene superplasticizer were added to control thefluidity of the mixes. These admixtures were added as weight percentageof the total reactive powder.

In the TABLE 18, it can be noted that Mix #1 contained no expanded shaleaggregate. Whereas, Mix #2 contained included expanded shale aggregatein addition to coated perlite filler.

Using the compositions shown in TABLE 18, ½ inch (1.3 cm) thicklightweight cement panels having a density of about 60 pounds per cubicfoot (pcf) (0.96 g/cc) were made.

The chemically coated perlite was SILBRICO brand perlite, model SIL-CELL35-23, having a median particle diameter of 40 microns and an alkylalkoxy silane coating. Entrained air in the board was introduced bymeans of surfactant foam that was prepared separately and added directlyto the wet cementitious slurry in the slurry mixer. Alkyl ether sulfatesurfactant in a water-based solution was used to prepare the foam. Thesurfactant concentration in the water-based solution was 1.00 wt. %. Itshould be noted that a combination of entrained air, perlite, andexpanded clay aggregate in the composition was responsible for achievingthe targeted low slurry density.

The manufactured cement boards were skin-reinforced usingalkali-resistant, PVC coated fiberglass mesh embedded in cementitiousslurry. The reinforcing mesh was manufactured by CCX Inc.

The composition included in the example was combined using a weightratio of water to cement (cementitious reactive powder) of 0.60:1. InMix #2, the weight ratio of expanded shale aggregate to cementitiousreactive powder ratio of 0.35:1 was used. Mix #1 contained no expandedclay aggregate. The dry reactive powder ingredients, perlite, andaggregate when used were mixed with water under ambient conditions. Allraw materials including water were used at room temperature to achieve aslurry temperature of about 70° F. (21° C.). The dosage rates ofchemical-additives (sodium citrate, sodium carbonate and naphthalenesulfonate superplasticizer) were adjusted to achieve desired flowbehavior and setting characteristics.

Mechanical testing was conducted to characterize the physical propertiesof the manufactured lightweight cement boards. Flexural strength wasmeasured according to the testing per ASTM C 947. Maximum deflection wasmeasured using the flexural load versus deflection plot obtained for aspecimen tested in flexure per ASTM C 947. Maximum deflection representsthe displacement of the specimen at the middle-third loading pointscorresponding to the peak load.

Seventeen days after manufacturing, the boards were tested forcharacterization of flexural performance per ASTM C947. TABLE 19 showsflexural performance of the tested boards under dry and wet conditions.Results shown in the table demonstrate the panels developed satisfactoryflexural strength and flexural ductility. Furthermore, the panels undersoaked condition demonstrated satisfactory mechanical performance.

TABLE 19 Flexural performance of cement boards made using the lightweicementitious composition of Example 12 Tested Dry Tested Wet¹ FlexuralMaximum Flexural Maximum Mix Strength Deflection Strength DeflectionIdentification (psi) (inches) (psi) (inches) Mix #1 930 0.74 925 0.88Mix #2 1122 0.79 1044 0.91 ¹Samples soaked in water at 70° F. (21° C.)for 48-hours before testing.

TABLE 20 shows stability of the panels under soaked condition. Panelswere soaked in water for 48-hours. Thickness of the panels was measuredbefore and after soaking. In TABLE 20, it can be observed that the panelwithout and expanded shale aggregate (Mix #1) expanded slightly morethat the panel containing aggregate (Mix #2). The thickness swell of thepanel containing no aggregate (Mix #1) was 0.27%, on the other hand, thesame for the panel containing expanded shale aggregate was 0.12%. Thisresult demonstrates improvement in dimensional stability of the panelsprovided by the inclusion of the expanded clay aggregate in thelightweight cementitious compositions of the invention containing coatedperlite.

TABLE 20 Characterization of thickness swell and dimensional stabilityof the panels of invention Mix Identification Thickness Swell (%) Mix #10.27 Mix #2 0.12 1. Samples soaked in water at 70° F. for 48-hoursbefore testing.

Although the preferred embodiments for implementing the presentinvention are described, it will be understood by those skilled in theart to which this disclosure is directed that modifications andadditions may be made to the invention without departing from its spiritand scope.

1. A method of providing a lightweight cementitious slurry comprising:forming a mixture of: 35 to 60 wt. %, on a wet basis, cementitiousreactive powder comprising Portland cement, 2 to 10 wt. %, on a wetbasis, expanded and chemically coated and water repellant perlitefiller, 20 to 40 wt. % water, 0 to 25 wt. %, on a wet basis, secondaryfiller; 10 to 50 vol. %, on a wet basis, entrained air; air-entrainingagent and/or foaming agent and optional additive from at least onemember selected from the group consisting of water reducing agents,chemical set-accelerators, and chemical set-retarders; under conditionswhich provide an initial slurry temperature of at least about 40° F.(4.4° C.), wherein the perlite filler has a mean particle diameterbetween 20-90 microns.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the perlitefiller is coated with a member selected from the group consisting ofsilane, siloxane, silicone and mixtures thereof.
 3. The method of claim1, wherein the perlite filler is coated with a silane.
 4. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the perlite filler is coated with an alkyl alkoxysilane.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the perlite filler is coatedwith an octyltriethoxy silane.
 6. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising setting the slurry to form a product having a product densityof 40 to 85 pcf (0.64 to 1.36 g/cc).
 7. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising setting the slurry to form a product having a product densityof 45 to 65 pcf (0.72 to 1.04 g/cc).
 8. The method of claim 1, whereinthe perlite filler has a mean particle diameter of 40 to 60 microns. 9.The method of claim 1, wherein the perlite filler has a mean particlediameter between 20-60 microns.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein theperlite filler has an effective particle density less than 0.50 g/cc.11. The method of claim 1, wherein the perlite filler has an effectiveparticle density less than 0.40 g/cc.
 12. The method of claim 1, whereinthe perlite filler has an effective particle density less than 0.30g/cc.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the slurry has an initialtemperature of about 90-150° F. (32-66° C.).
 14. The method of claim 1,wherein the cementitious reactive powder further comprises a mineraladditive.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the mineral additivecomprises at least one member selected from the group consisting ofpumice, diatomaceous earth, silica fume, tuff, trass, rice husk,metakaolin, ground granulated blast furnace slag, and fly ash, calciumcarbonate, mica and talc.
 16. The method of claim 14, wherein themineral additive comprises fly ash.
 17. The method of claim 14, whereinthe mineral additive comprises Class C fly ash.
 18. The method of claim1, wherein the mixture comprises at least one additive selected from thegroup consisting of water reducing agents, chemical set-accelerators,chemical set-retarder.
 19. The method of claim 1, wherein the mixturefurther comprises at least one member selected from the group consistingof high alumina cement and calcium sulfate.
 20. The method of claim 1,wherein the cementitious reactive powder comprises, on a dry basis,about 40 to 90 wt. % Portland cement and 10 to 60 wt. % fly ash based onthe sum of the Portland cement and fly ash.
 21. The method of claim 1,wherein the cementitious reactive powder comprises, on a dry basis,about 40 to 80 wt. % Portland cement, 0 to 20 wt. % high alumina cement,0 to 7 wt. % calcium sulfate, 0 to 55 wt. % fly ash, based on the sum ofthe Portland cement, high alumina cement, calcium sulfate and fly ash.22. The method of claim 1, wherein the cementitious reactive powdercomprises: 35-60 wt. %, on a wet basis, cementitious reactive powdercomprising Portland cement and optionally a pozzolanic material, 2-10wt. %, on a wet basis, expanded and chemically coated and waterrepellant perlite filler, 20-40 wt. % water, 10-50 vol. %, on a wetbasis, entrained air, air-entraining agent and/or foaming agent,optional additive from at least one member selected from the groupconsisting of water reducing agents, chemical set-accelerators, andchemical set-retarders; 10-25 wt. % secondary fillers of at least onemember selected from the group consisting of expanded clay, shaleaggregate and pumice; wherein the total of expanded and chemicallycoated perlite filler and secondary fillers is at least 20 wt. %. 23.The method of claim 1, wherein the cementitious reactive powdercomprises, 100 parts Portland cement; 30 parts fly ash; 3 parts calciumsulfate dihydrate; 2-10 wt. % expanded and chemically coated perlitefiller.
 24. The method of claim 1, wherein the secondary filler is atleast one member selected from the group consisting of blast furnaceslag, volcanic tuff, pumice, expanded forms of clay, shale, hollowceramic spheres, hollow plastic spheres, expanded plastic beads.
 25. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the secondary filler is selected from atleast one member of the group consisting of expanded clay, shaleaggregate, and pumice.
 26. The method of claim 1, wherein the chemicalset-accelerator comprises an alkanolamine selected from the groupconsisting of triethanolamine, diethanolamine, monoethanolamine andmixtures thereof.
 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the amount of thealkanolamine is about 0.03 to 4 wt. % based on the weight of thecementitious reactive powder on a dry basis.
 28. The method of claim 1,wherein the slurry further comprises a set retarder.
 29. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the slurry further comprises a foaming agent.
 30. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the slurry further comprises an inorganicsecondary set accelerator.
 31. The method of claim 1, wherein the slurryfurther comprises a superplasticizer water reducing agent.
 32. Themethod of claim 1, the slurry has an initial temperature of at least 90°F. (32° C.).
 33. The method of claim 1, comprising 10 to 30 volume %entrained air on a wet basis.